With the news of the Tyler Greene to Houston trade, that brought tears of joy and happiness to nearly all of Cardinal Nation was followed by some other news. With the roster spot free, everyone wondered who would get the call. Would Matt Adams or Adron Chambers get another shot in the MLB or would top prospects Oscar Taveras or Kolten Wong get the call? No, it was Ryan Jackson the top defensive short stop in the Cardinals system who got the call up to join the big leagues.  So let us get to know the newest Cardinal, number 8, Ryan Jackson: Jackson, 24, is a superb defensive short stop who can also play second and third if needed. He was drafted by the Cardinals in the fifth round of the 2009 draft from the University of Miami.  Jackson has been known for two things throughout his tenure in the Cardinals system, 1.) Above average defense, 2.) Below average offense. It is a trade off, he may not be the best hitter but he will still put up decent numbers as well as having good defensive skills.  In his minor league career Jackson is a .266 AVG/ .335 OBP/ .398 SLG hitter. Last season was his best offensive season, playing for AA Springfield, Jackson batted .278 with 11 homers and 73 RBI.  So far this season in AAA Memphis, Jackson has a .269 AVG, with 10 homers, 23 doubles, and 45 RBI.  So as you can tell by his numbers he will produce but he’s not going to have a high average by any means.

Jackson probably won’t be a super star short stop, but he will make some flashy plays and put up some productive offensive numbers. I think Jackson will make an impact on the club, with Rafael Furcal dealing with his back injury and aging, Jackson will be able to provide the Cardinals with a decent back up who is known for playing short stop unlike the third baseman/second baseman Daniel Descalso playing short. I think either way he will be a better asset than Tyler Greene who was filled with potential but just could not produce with the Cardinals. I wish Tyler the best of luck in Houston and I hope that Ryan Jackson will make a great impression with the Cardinals!